Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Party Recipe: Scottish Dinner

In a few weeks, Rob and I will be host to the final party in the "Tour de Awesome" series for my friend's 30th birthdays. Tour de Shane has a Scottish theme, with the main event being a big dinner party! Here's what I'm brainstorming so far:

Decorations - Instead of a tablecloth, I bought a plaid pashmina to use as a runner. The big candelabras will have red candles. Our laguiole steak knives and carving set will be a great match. Rosemary and lavender for centerpieces. Auptimagh font for the invite.

Beverages - Scotch tastings from modern glass decanters. For the birthday boy, a special ram's head glass to drink from.

Activities -Plaid is mandatory for all the guests, which should make a festive start. My mom has delivered a couple old Scottish books, including an antique copy of Robert Burns poetry. We'll have toasts and readings.

Can you all gather at a park? You could try to have a modified Scottish games and see who can throw a tree trunk the furthest (obviously that's the part you'd have to substitute) as well as a Scottish dance competition. Could be hilarious and a good way to work up a huge appetite.

If you can find them, try showing a few "Hamish Macbeth" episodes (hilarious!) or Maggie Smith's best movie "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" (amazing clothes!).

If you're feeling squeamish about the haggis, try a steak and kidney pudding. Rich gravy with chunks of beef and bits of kidney (if you want them) topped with luscious pastry. I normally use puff pastry.

Cock-a-leekie, Lentil & Bacon or Scotch Broth served with oatcakes would all make lovely soup starters. Haggis, Neeps (turnips, swedes) and Tatties (potatoes) with a delicious creamy whisky sauce would be divine for mains. For dessert, try making Cranachan - raspberries, cream, oatmeal and yet more whisky...mmm. Burns' poems always go down well and once the party's started get The Proclaimers '500 miles' on your stereo! Have a fantastic night!

About Me

I'm an adventurer and communications consultant with thoughts on fashion, entertaining and travel. I've hosted about a dozen baby showers, four weddings and countless dinner parties.
I love a challenge! Email me with questions about what to wear or how to put together a party and I'm happy to help.
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